I can't figure out whether my problem is that I don't know how to configure the hardware adapters or multiple monitors (or both). I've done some Google searching but haven't understood any of the answers. All help appreciated--if you think your idea might be too basic for me, you'd be wrong. :-)

The extra monitors are using the Sewell adapters I posted earlier. Because it is a laptop, it runs my regular screen with the built-in card and that works just fine with Ubuntu. It's the external monitors attached to the Sewel adapters that I need help with.

Unfortunately, it looks quite involved as you'll have to compile and install the driver manually. Before beginning, I strongly recommend making backups of your important data; there is a strong possibility you'll hose your system. Especially make a backup of your current /etc/X11/xorg.conf.

In a worst case scenario, you won't have a working display at all. In this case, you can restore the old xorg.conf by hitting Ctrl-Alt-F3 after the system boots up. (Even if you don't have a working display). That will drop you into a terminal screen where you can copy the old xorg.conf back.

sudo cp /where/ever/you/put/xorg.conf /etc/X11

Then reboot and your system should be back to normal.

Logged

mikemorrannj

Thanks so much for your help, Bruce. I hadn't found that post in Google, so I appreciate your searching for me. As you surmised, that looks a bit intimidating to a newbie like me. Is anyone aware of any kind of service that I could use to work on this for me? An Ubuntu version of the Geek squad who could do it for me or walk me through it? I don't know how much I'd be willing to pay, but I think I need some kind of hand holding for something like this. Thanks to anyone who can help.

Logged

mikemorrannj

Also, the post said that I need Xinerama to drag windows between screens, the way I do on Windows today, so this seems even more complex than I thought. If anyone has any pointers on how to get someone to help me set this up, I'd be very appreciative. I used Ubuntu all the time on my laptop on the road, but this screen problem has stopped me from using it in my home office.

Logged

Bruce H

Hmm. If you are not comfortable with compiling and installing your own software, then probably you should find someone locally who can. You might try Craig's list, or perhaps post to a more widely read ubuntu-specific forum such as this one:

If you are feeling brave though, I'd suggest just digging in and solving it yourself. It's a great way to learn about your system. There's not much I can do without being there in person. But, if you'd like me to try walking you through it over phone or skype or something, send me an email at bheerssen(at)gmail.com